The Audi CTUD is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It belongs to the EA288 Evo engine family, featuring common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard configuration it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) with 340 Nm of torque, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and strong low-end pull for everyday driving.
Fitted to models including the 8V A3, B9 A4, and C7 A6, the CTUD was engineered for refined performance and compliance with strict emissions standards. It meets Euro 6b and later Euro 6d-TEMP requirements through a combination of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection in certain variants. The engine supports start-stop functionality and brake energy recuperation to enhance urban efficiency.
One documented concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under sustained high-load conditions, particularly in early CTUD units. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2017-09-03, is associated with cam follower degradation affecting pump actuation. From 2018 onward, revised camshafts and updated HPFP assemblies were implemented across EA288 Evo engines to improve long-term reliability.
Production years 2016–2018 meet Euro 6b standards; 2019–2020 models comply with Euro 6d-TEMP depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi CTUD is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine from the EA288 Evo series, designed for compact and mid-size models (2016–2020). It integrates variable geometry turbocharging with common rail injection and dual overhead camshafts to deliver responsive low-RPM torque and improved emissions control. Engineered to meet Euro 6b and later Euro 6d-TEMP standards, it balances drivability with stringent environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (variable geometry) | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 3,250–4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b (2016–2018); Euro 6d-TEMP (2019–2020) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Honeywell variable geometry turbo (VGT) with air/water intercooling | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (double-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | VW 507 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban and highway driving but requires consistent use of ultra-low sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent injector and pump wear. VW 507 00 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its low-SAPS formulation protecting the turbo and EGR system. Extended idling and short trips can accelerate DPF clogging and EGR fouling. The Bosch CRS 2-20 fuel pump relies on precise cam lobe contact; wear can cause rail pressure faults. Post-2018 models feature revised cam followers; pre-2018 units should be inspected per Audi SIB 2017-09-03. EGR cooler and DPF regeneration should be monitored to maintain emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 507 00 / 505 00 specification (Audi SIB 2017-08-02). Compatible with ACEA C2/C3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6b certification applies to 2016–2018 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). Euro 6d-TEMP compliance confirmed for 2019–2020 units in UK markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 110 kW output requires EN 590 diesel quality (Audi TIS Doc. B41015).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B41010, B41015, B41020, SIB 2017-09-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test procedure for fuel consumption
The Audi CTUD was used across Audi's 8V/B9 platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated starter-generator (ISG) in mild-hybrid variants and revised cooling in high-performance S4 applications-and from 2018 the facelifted A4 B9 adopted updated emissions controls, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front timing cover near the alternator (Audi TIS B41025). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for 2.0 TDI). Pre-2018 models have a single-row chain cover; post-2018 units feature a reinforced cover with updated tensioner. Critical differentiation from EA288 Gen 1: CTUD has integrated EGR cooler in cylinder head and revised PCV routing. Service parts require model-year verification—HPFP assemblies for pre-2018 engines are incompatible with later revisions due to cam follower redesign (Audi SIB 2017-09-03).
The CTUD's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage and performance-oriented use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2017 indicated a significant share of pre-2018 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 150,000 km, while VCA MOT data links a portion of fuel system failures to degraded injection timing in urban-driven examples. Frequent high-load operation and poor fuel quality increase pump and cam lobe stress, making fuel specification and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2016-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CTUD.
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